DE102020110188A1 - Method and device for decoding multiple transmissions of time-related data and method for checking a device for decoding multiple transmissions of time-related data - Google Patents

Abstract

A method for decoding multiple transmissions of time-related data, comprising the following steps: receiving and recognizing separate data blocks, each data block having data comprising at least one code word assigned to a system frame number which is dependent on the transmission time of the respective data block, demodulating each data block, so that IQ samples, likelihood quotients or their representatives are obtained for each data block, - accumulating the IQ samples, the likelihood quotients or their representatives to a sum that is forwarded to a single block decoder, and - decoding the Sum, thereby obtaining decoding results. An apparatus for decoding multiple transmissions of time-related data and a method for checking an apparatus for decoding multiple transmissions of time-related data are also described.

Description

Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to a method of decoding multiple transmissions of time-related data. Furthermore, embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to apparatus for decoding multiple transmissions of time-related data. Furthermore, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a method for checking an apparatus for decoding multiple transmissions of time-related data.

In modern mobile communications networks such as 5G-NR, broadcast channel (BCH) messages are exchanged between a base station and a receiver such as a cell phone or other mobile device. Usually these messages are transmitted periodically and comprise payload data with constant data and data which are dependent on the transmission time, e.g. the system frame number (SFN). The respective recipient must decode the multiple transmitted messages to access the user data.

However, the receivers cannot decode the transmitted messages if the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) falls below a certain threshold value. In other words, the receivers cannot decode the transmitted messages under difficult channel conditions.

So far, techniques are known which ensure the decoding of messages under difficult channel conditions only for messages with identical user data, but this does not apply to messages which contain data which are dependent on the transmission time, such as the system frame number.

Accordingly, there is a need for a way to decode several transmitted messages under difficult channel conditions, even if the transmitted data includes data that is dependent on the transmission time.

• - Empfangen und Erkennen separater Datenblöcke, wobei jeder Datenblock Daten aufweist, die mindestens ein Codewort umfassen, das einer Systemrahmennummer zugeordnet ist, die von der Übertragungszeit des jeweiligen Datenblocks abhängig ist,
• - Demodulieren jedes Datenblocks, so dass IQ-Abtastwerte, Likelihood-Quotienten oder deren Repräsentanten für jeden Datenblock erhalten werden,
• - Akkumulieren der IQ-Abtastwerte, der Likelihood-Quotienten oder ihrer Repräsentanten zu einer Summe, die an einen Einzelblockdecodierer weitergeleitet wird, und
• - Decodieren der Summe, wodurch Decodierungsergebnisse erhalten werden.

Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a method for decoding multiple transmissions of time-related data comprising the steps of:

• - Receiving and recognizing separate data blocks, each data block having data that comprise at least one code word that is assigned to a system frame number that is dependent on the transmission time of the respective data block,
• - Demodulating each data block so that IQ samples, likelihood quotients or their representatives are obtained for each data block,
• - Accumulating the IQ samples, the likelihood quotients or their representatives to a sum which is forwarded to a single block decoder, and
• Decoding the sum, thereby obtaining decoding results.

In addition, embodiments of the present disclosure provide an apparatus for decoding multiple transmissions of time-related data. The device has at least two reception channels and a demodulation module which is configured such that it demodulates data blocks received via the at least two reception channels so that IQ samples, likelihood quotients or their representatives are obtained. Each data block has data which comprise at least one code word which is assigned to a system frame number which is dependent on the transmission time of the respective data block. In addition, the device has an accumulation module assigned to the demodulation module and a single block decoder with only one input, the single block decoder being connected to the accumulation module.

Accordingly, multiple transmissions or a number of messages, namely the separate data blocks, are received by the device at different times and processed accordingly in order to lower the threshold value of the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) for successful decoding. The multiple messages or multiple transmissions can thus be decoded even under difficult (broadcast) channel conditions.

The likelihood ratios can relate to log likelihood ratios.

In general, the likelihood quotient or log likelihood quotient provides a probability as to whether the respective symbol, e.g. Bit, has a certain value. A bit can e.g. have the values "0" or "1".

In fact, the increase in the threshold value of the signal-to-noise ratio can be given as 10 · log ₁₀ (k), where k denotes the number of data blocks received. The respective threshold value increase of the signal-to-noise ratio is given in dB.

Since the system frame number depends on the transmission time of the respective data block is, the user data is different for each transmitted data block, ie each transmitted message. The payload data can comprise additional constant data which can relate to the bandwidth of the transmission channel, settings and configuration data of the radio network and / or data which indicate where more detailed information can be found.

In general, the device may correspond to a receiver with a multiblock decoder connected to a single block decoder. The multiblock decoder receives and processes multiple transmissions of time-related data, namely data blocks with data that are dependent on the transmission time of the respective data block. These processed multiple transmissions are forwarded to the single block decoder, which finally outputs the decoding results.

In addition, the IQ samples obtained from the demodulation step can be accumulated directly. IQ samples that are assigned to data blocks that have been modulated according to the quadrature phase shift keying (QPSK) method can, for example, be scaled and accumulated directly.

According to one aspect, frame number differences of the data blocks are determined on the basis of knowledge of the frame duration, with certain obtained IQ samples, likelihood quotients or their representatives being modified by using the determined frame number differences, so that the respective code word differences of the data blocks are compensated for over time. Therefore, the modified IQ samples, likelihood quotients or their representatives can be accumulated. The compensation of the respective code word differences relates to the change in the code word over time, which is compensated accordingly, since an internal clock of the device for decoding the multiple transmissions of time-related data is configured in such a way that it measures the timing and thus derives the change in the system frame number from it.

Furthermore, the reception time differences of the data blocks can be determined. The frame number differences are determined on the basis of the knowledge of the frame duration and the reception time differences of the data blocks. For example, the absolute reception times of the respective data blocks are measured, while the reception time differences are derived from the measured absolute reception times. Alternatively, the reception time differences are measured directly with reference to a reference data block, which serves as a reference point in time. In other words, the reception time of the reference data block corresponds to a reference time that is used directly to measure the respective reception time differences of the other data blocks that are received at other times, in particular later.

In any case, the device can have a clock generator, in particular an internal clock generator, which is used to determine the reception times or reception time differences of the separate data blocks.

A further aspect provides that the frame number differences and / or the code word differences correspond to the differences in relation to a reference data block which comprises a reference code word which is assigned to a reference frame number. As mentioned above, the reference data block can be the data block which is used to determine the respective reception time differences of the other data blocks received later. Accordingly, the frame number differences with respect to the frame number of this specific data block, namely the reference data block, are calculated. In a similar way, the code word differences also correspond to the change over time of the respective code word of the various data blocks in relation to the reference code word, namely the code word of the reference data block.

In general, the reference data block can correspond to the first received data block within a decoding sequence. This means that all other data blocks are received later than the reference data block within the same decoding sequence.

Furthermore, the reference frame number can be determined based on a systematic trial and error approach in which all possible values for the reference frame number are attempted for decoding. In other words, all possible values for the reference frame number are attempted based on a systematic trial-and-error approach to decoding. In 5G-NR e.g. 10 bits are provided which result in 1024 different possible values for the reference frame number which are tried in a systematic manner.

• - falls die Decodierung nicht für alle betrachteten Bezugsrahmennummern erfolgreich war, werden mehr Datenblöcke empfangen,
• - falls die Decodierung für eine einzelne betrachtete Bezugsrahmennummer erfolgreich war, wird das Decodierungsergebnis an eine nächste Instanz weitergeleitet, und/oder
• - falls die Decodierung für mehr als eine betrachtete Bezugsrahmennummer erfolgreich war, wird eine weitere Entscheidungsroutine durchgeführt, um ein einzelnes Decodierungsergebnis auszuwählen, das an eine nächste Instanz weiterzuleiten ist.

The systematic trial-and-error approach can include the following steps:

• - if the decoding was not successful for all considered reference frame numbers, more data blocks are received,
• - if the decoding was successful for a single reference frame number considered, the decoding result is passed on to a next instance, and / or
• - If the decoding was successful for more than one considered reference frame number, a further decision routine is carried out in order to select an individual decoding result which is to be forwarded to a next instance.

Accordingly, the method generally ensures that a (broadcast) channel can also be decoded if the bandwidth of the respective receiver is smaller than the bandwidth of the (broadcast) channel, a number of received data blocks being combined during the Receiver can change its carrier frequency over time in order to collect different parts of the bandwidth of the (broadcast) channel. If the number of blocks received corresponds to the ratio of the bandwidth of the channel to the bandwidth of the receiver, the receiver can achieve the same SNR threshold value for a received block as a receiver without bandwidth limitation.

If a single value was found, the decoding was successful so that single value can be passed on to the next instance for processing.

In general, successful decoding means that an available parity check (CRC) was successful and the decoded system frame number (SFN) corresponds to the value of the (reference) frame number used in the compensation process.

• - Neucodieren der Decodierungsergebnisse, von denen mehr als eines gefunden wurde, so dass neu codierte Symbole oder IQ-Abtastwerte erhalten werden,
• - Weiterleiten der neu codierten Symbole oder IQ-Abtastwerte für alle erfolgreichen Decodierungsergebnisse an einen Sequenzdecodierer, der ein Maß für die Ähnlichkeit der neu codierten Symbole oder IQ-Abtastwerte mit den empfangenen Likelihood-Quotienten oder IQ-Abtastwerten ausgibt, und
• - Auswählen des einzelnen Decodierungsergebnisses auf der Grundlage der Ausgabewerte des Sequenzdecodierers.

According to one aspect, the further decision routine comprises the following steps:

• - re-encoding the decoding results of which more than one was found so that re-encoded symbols or IQ samples are obtained,
• Forwarding the newly encoded symbols or IQ samples for all successful decoding results to a sequence decoder, which outputs a measure of the similarity of the newly encoded symbols or IQ samples with the received likelihood quotients or IQ samples, and
• - Selecting the individual decoding result on the basis of the output values of the sequence decoder.

The symbols can refer to bits.

• - eine empfangene Sequenz in mehrere Fragmente teilt,
• - den (Rundfunk-)Kanal durch Verwendung einer ersten Teilmenge der mehreren Fragmente entzerrt,
• - die Amplitude jedes Fragments einer zweiten Teilmenge der mehreren Fragmente in dem entzerrten Radiofrequenzkanal misst und
• - die mindestens eine Amplitude für die Entscheidung verwendet, ob die mindestens eine Sequenz des Signals einer in einer Liste aufgeführten Sequenz entspricht.

Such a sequence decoder is generally known in the prior art, for example a decoder which can receive a plurality of high-frequency sequences. In general, the sequence decoder can be configured to:

• - divides a received sequence into several fragments,
• - Equalizes the (broadcast) channel by using a first subset of the several fragments,
• and measures the amplitude of each fragment of a second subset of the plurality of fragments in the equalized radio frequency channel
• the at least one amplitude is used to decide whether the at least one sequence of the signal corresponds to a sequence listed in a list.

The (currently accepted) reference frame number is provided, in particular, to the single block decoder as a priori knowledge. In this way, the decoding probability is increased in the case of poor signal-to-noise ratios of the respective channel, while the respective reference frame number, which is used to determine the frame number differences of the respective received data blocks, is accepted or estimated.

Another aspect provides that at least one group of reference frame numbers is formed, each element of the group having the identical code word difference, with all possible groups being tried on the basis of a systematic trial-and-error approach for the decoding. It is therefore not necessary to carry out the trial-and-error approach for all possible values of the reference frame number for each data block, since the respective steps only need to be carried out once for each group, since all elements of this group have the same code word difference. This can significantly reduce the computational effort.

• - Die Menge N = {0, 1, ..., N-1} enthält alle SFNs (für 5G-NR gibt es z.B. N=1024 SFNs).
• - Die Menge D = {d_1=(n1-n0), d_2=(n2-n0), ..., d_k=(nk-n0)} enthält alle Rahmennummerndifferenzen gegenüber der ersten Rahmennummer bzw. der Bezugsrahmennummer n0.
• - Die Menge N wird in S disjunkte Mengen aufgeteilt, wobei diese Mengen als SFN-Gruppen bezeichnet werden. Die s-te SFN-Gruppe enthält die Elemente G_s = {g_s0, g_s1, ...}.
• - Alle Elemente in einer SFN-Gruppe G_s müssen die Eigenschaft erfüllen, dass für alle 3-Tupel { i, j, k} die Gleichung ((g_si + d_k) mod N) xor g_si identisch ist mit ((g_sj + d_k) mod N) xor g_sj.

In other words, a check is made as to which of the received data blocks leads to the same code word difference compensation for all respective code words. For linear coding methods, the system frame number groups (SFN groups) can be calculated efficiently with the help of the following properties:

• - The set N = {0, 1, ..., N-1} contains all SFNs (for 5G-NR there are e.g. N = 1024 SFNs).
• - The set D = {d_1 = (n1-n0), d_2 = (n2-n0), ..., d_k = (nk-n0)} contains all frame number differences compared to the first frame number or the reference frame number n0.
• - The set N is divided into S disjoint sets, these sets being called SFN groups are designated. The s-th SFN group contains the elements G_s = {g_s0, g_s1, ...}.
• - All elements in an SFN group G_s must fulfill the property that for all 3-tuples {i, j, k} the equation ((g_si + d_k) mod N) xor g_si is identical to ((g_sj + d_k) mod N) xor g_sj.

• - Alle Elemente in einer SFN-Gruppe G_s müssen die Eigenschaft erfüllen, dass für alle 3-Tupel { i, j, k}:
  • entweder der Nutzdatenverschlüsseler von g_si und g_sj identisch ist
  • oder der Nutzdatenverschlüsseler für g_si und g_si+d_k identisch ist und für g_sj und g_sj+d_k identisch ist.

If the coding chain also contains SFN-dependent user data encryption (with 5G-NR, for example, the user data encryption depends on the 2nd and 3rd least significant bit, also called LSB, of the SFN), the following property must also be fulfilled:

• - All elements in an SFN group G_s must fulfill the property that for all 3-tuples {i, j, k}:
  • either the user data encryptor of g_si and g_sj is identical
  • or the user data encryptor is identical for g_si and g_si + d_k and is identical for g_sj and g_sj + d_k.

If certain SFN bits are identical for all elements in an SFN group, the single block decoder can use this knowledge as a priori information or as a priori knowledge.

In general, each data block can contain multiple symbols. The symbols can be modulated symbols, e.g. QPSK symbols.

In addition, each data block can have additional payload data comprising the same constant binary data. The constant binary data refer to the constant data.

In addition, the system frame number can also be transmitted as binary data.

The system frame numbers are interpreted as an outer code, the code words being interpreted as an inner code. It is therefore not necessary to assume a value for the reference frame number in advance. In addition, it is not necessary to use the trial-and-error approach, since the system frame numbers, especially their generation, are interpreted as code to be decoded by the receiver.

The inner and outer codes are e.g. iteratively decoded, whereby (log) likelihood quotients of decoded versions of the code words are passed between the inner code and the outer code. Accordingly, both the frame numbers and the coding are decoded together through an iterative process. Computational complexity can increase depending on the number of iterations.

In another aspect, the separate data blocks are received on different carrier frequencies. Signals or data blocks which are assigned to different parts of the (radio) channel can thus be collected by the device or by the receiver. The device can change its detection carrier frequency over time to collect different parts of the bandwidth of the (broadcast) channel. The (radio) channel can therefore also be decoded if the bandwidth of the respective receiver is smaller than the bandwidth of the (radio) channel.

Another aspect provides that a compensation module is connected between the demodulation module and the accumulation module. The compensation module is configured in such a way that it compensates for the respective code word differences of the data blocks over time by modifying certain obtained IQ samples, likelihood quotients or their representatives. Therefore, codeword differences as described above and referred to can be compensated for.

In fact, the multiblock decoder can comprise the demodulation module, the accumulation module and the optional compensation module. The multiblock decoder is connected to the single block decoder.

Accordingly, the device, e.g. the receiver, comprise the multiblock decoder connected in series with the single block decoder.

The device, in particular the single block decoder, can output an estimated reference frame number. In addition, an estimate for the constant data based on the reference code word can be output.

In addition, both the device and the method enable an improvement in the estimation of the reception performance by comparing the received data blocks with the newly encoded decoding results of the estimates of the constant data and the (reference) frame number.

• - Anschließen der zu überprüfenden Vorrichtung an einen Signalgenerator,
• - Erzeugen eines ersten Signals mit standardkonformer Inkrementierung,
• - Messen eines ersten Schwellenwerts für eine erfolgreiche Decodierung, während das erste Signal an die zu überprüfende Vorrichtung weitergeleitet wird,
• - Erzeugen eines zweiten Signals ohne standardkonforme Inkrementierung,
• - Messen eines zweiten Schwellenwerts für eine erfolgreiche Decodierung, während das zweite Signal an die zu überprüfende Vorrichtung weitergeleitet wird, und
• - Vergleichen des ersten gemessenen Schwellenwerts mit dem zweiten gemessenen Schwellenwert.

In addition, the present disclosure provides a method for checking an apparatus for decoding multiple transmissions of time-related data comprising the following steps:

• - Connecting the device to be checked to a signal generator,
• - Generation of a first signal with standard-compliant incrementation,
• - measuring a first threshold value for successful decoding while the first signal is forwarded to the device under test,
• - Generation of a second signal without standard-compliant incrementation,
• - measuring a second threshold value for successful decoding while the second signal is passed on to the device under test, and
• - comparing the first measured threshold value with the second measured threshold value.

In particular, it can be checked whether the device for the decoding of multiple transmissions of time-related data is a device as described above or not. Alternatively or additionally, a check can be made as to whether the device for decoding multiple transmissions of time-related data uses a method as described above, namely a method for decoding multiple transmissions of time-related data.

If the threshold value for the signal with standard-compliant incrementation is (much) lower, this is evidence that the method or device described above is used. In other words, if the first threshold value is (much) lower than the second threshold value, this is proof that the above-described method or the above-described device is used.

The standard conformity refers to the respective standard of a particular signal, which a standard, e.g. 5G or New Radio (NR). The standard-compliant incrementation is e.g. a standard-compliant system frame number (SFN) increment.

The standard 5G or NR refers e.g. to 1024 system frame numbers. Accordingly, for the 5G-NR standard, a standard-compliant increment can refer to the numbers (index) 0 to 1023 in the respective order.

In fact, a signal with standard-compliant incrementation means that after a certain period of time, e.g. every 10 ms, the system frame number (SFN) is incremented by 1 and goes from 0 to 1023 for the standard 5G-NR. So it refers to a 10-bit number.

In other words, a signal without a standard-compliant incrementation can refer to any incrementation, e.g. "5", "8", "9", "3" etc.

In general, the threshold refers to an SNR threshold or a signal generator power threshold.

• - 1 schematisch eine Übersicht über ein Mobilkommunikationsnetz, das eine repräsentative Ausführungsform einer Vorrichtung zum Decodieren von Mehrfachübertragungen zeitbezogener Daten enthält,
• - 2 eine repräsentative Ausführungsform einer Vorrichtung zum Decodieren von Mehrfachübertragungen zeitbezogener Daten gemäß der vorliegenden Offenbarung und
• - 3 eine weitere repräsentative Ausführungsform einer Vorrichtung zum Decodieren von Mehrfachübertragungen zeitbezogener Daten gemäß der vorliegenden Offenbarung.

The foregoing aspects and many of the related advantages of the claimed subject matter will be more readily appreciated when better understood from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. In the drawings show:

• - 1 schematically an overview of a mobile communication network which contains a representative embodiment of a device for decoding multiple transmissions of time-related data,
• - 2 a representative embodiment of an apparatus for decoding multiple transmissions of time-related data in accordance with the present disclosure;
• - 3 Another representative embodiment of an apparatus for decoding multiple transmissions of time-related data in accordance with the present disclosure.

The detailed description set forth below in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which identical reference characters refer to identical elements, is intended as a description of various embodiments of the disclosed subject matter and is not intended to represent the only embodiments. Each embodiment described in this disclosure is given as an example or illustration only and is not to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. The illustrative examples provided herein are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the claimed subject matter to the precise forms disclosed.

1 shows schematically a mobile communication network 10 that has a transmitter 12 and a receiver 14th which communicate with one another via a plurality of (radio) channels 16. The transmitter 12 is generally configured to send messages over the channels at different times, e.g. periodically 16 to the recipient 14th transmits.

The transmitter 12 includes an internal clock 18th , a coding module 20th and a modulation module 22nd .

Furthermore, the sender is 12 a data source 24 assigned, which can be accessed for the transmission of respective constant data c contained in the transmitted messages.

As mentioned earlier, the transmitter is 12 generally configured to transmit multiple messages periodically. Thus sets the clock 18th ensure that the respective transfers of data blocks take place periodically.

The sender takes action to transmit the respective data blocks 12 on the data source 24 to to obtain constant data c to which a time-dependent frame number n0 to nk is added to obtain a corresponding symbol u0 to uk.

Then the symbols u0 to uk are in the coding module 20th coded to obtain a code word c0 to ck. The code words c0 to ck obtained are used in the modulation module 22nd modulated in such a way that data blocks x0 to xk are received over the channel 16 to the recipient 14th which in turn receives the data blocks as transmitted data blocks y0 to yk.

The one from the recipient 14th Received data blocks y0 to yk can be caused by noise or other influences in the channel 16 occur, be disturbed. Accordingly, the received data blocks y0 to yk are designated differently in relation to the transmitted data blocks x0 to xk.

As in 1 shown, the transmitter is transmitting 12 k + 1 data blocks at different transmission times t0 to tk. Accordingly, the symbols, code words and data blocks are designated with the indices “0” to “k” to distinguish their time dependency.

In other words, k + 1 frame numbers, namely n0 to nk, k + 1 symbols, namely u0 to uk, k + 1 code words, namely c0 to ck, and k + 1 data blocks, namely x0 to xk, are provided.

As a result, the receiver receives 14th k + 1 data blocks, namely y0 to yk, at k + 1 different times, which relate to the transmission times t0 to tk.

Generally the recipient corresponds 14th a device 26th for decoding the multiple transmissions of time-related data.

Therefore the device must 26th determine the reception times or reception time differences of the various messages, namely the data blocks y0 to yk. For this purpose, the recipient includes 14th or the device 26th a clock 28 that provides time information.

Accordingly, the recipient includes 14th or the device 26th the clock 28 as well as a decoder 29 based on the 2 and 3 are described in more detail.

Generally the recipient is 14th or the device 26th configured to output an estimate of the constant data c denoted by ĉ.

In addition, the recipient is 14th or the device 26th configured to output an estimate of the reference frame number n, denoted by n̂0, of a received reference data block, namely the first in the decoding sequence. Therefore, the reference data block corresponds to the data block labeled y0 which relates to the frame number n0.

In addition, the recipient is 14th or the device 26th configured to output an estimate of the received power.

In 2 Figure 3 is a schematic overview of a representative embodiment of the receiver 14th shown in more detail.

Out 2 indicates that the recipient 14th , especially the device 26th , a demodulation unit 30th , a compensation module 32 , an accumulation module 34 , a single block decoder 36 and a performance estimator 38 having.

The demodulation unit 30th , the compensation module 32 and the accumulation module 34 refer to a multiblock decoder 40 with a single exit 42 over which the multiblock decoder 40 as in 2 shown with a single entrance 44 of the single block decoder 36 connected is.

The demodulation module 30th is with multiple receiving channels 46 connected through which the recipient 14th the separate data blocks y0 through yk received from the transmitter 12 across the channels 16 as data blocks x0 to xk were transmitted.

The received data blocks y0 to yk are recognized as separate data blocks and are recognized by the demodulation module 30th demodulated so that IQ samples, likelihood quotients or their representatives are obtained.

Usually, IQ samples are obtained which can be further processed to, as in The following explains likelihood quotients, for example how to obtain log likelihood quotients. However, it is also possible to further process the IQ samples directly (without determining their likelihood quotients).

In the embodiment shown, log-likelihood quotients L0 to Lk are obtained for each received data block y0 to yk.

For certain data blocks y1 to yk of all received data blocks are based on the knowledge of the frame duration and time signals from the internal clock 28 are obtained, the frame number differences n1-n0 to nk-n0 are determined.

The frame number differences n1-n0 to nk-n0 are determined with reference to the received reference data block y0, namely the first in the decoding sequence.

For this purpose, reception time differences of the specific received data blocks y1 to yk, namely of all received data blocks with the exception of the reference data block y0, are determined.

The reception time differences are measured directly with reference to the reception time of the first received data block y0, which corresponds to the reference data block for the respective decoding sequence.

Alternatively, the absolute reception times of the several received data blocks y0 to yk are measured, the reception time differences of the specific data blocks y1 to yk being derived from the absolute reception times by subtracting the later from the first, namely from the reception time of the first data block or the reference data block y0.

With the aid of the determined frame number differences n1-n0 to nk-n0, certain previously obtained log-likelihood quotients are modified.

Indeed, the log-likelihood quotients L1 to Lk associated with the particular data blocks y1 to yk which were related to the first data block y0 which was used as the reference data block are modified.

By modifying the determined log-likelihood quotients L1 to Lk, code word differences c1-c0 to ck-c0 of the respective data blocks y1 to yk can be compensated for over time. In fact, the time discrepancy between the code words, which occurs at different points in time due to the transmission, can be compensated accordingly.

The one from the compensation module 32 The modified log-likelihood quotients L01 to L0k obtained all relate to the specific code word c0 of the reference data block y0, which is the coded version of the symbol u0 of the reference data block y0. Since the modified log-likelihood quotients all relate to the code word c0, they are referred to as L01 to L0k.

The log-likelihood quotient L0 of the reference data block y0 and all modified log-likelihood quotients L01 to L0k are then stored in the accumulation module 34 is accumulated so that a single value, namely the sum, is obtained, which is output as a single value that is obtained from the single block decoder 36 Will be received.

In other words, the log-likelihood quotients L0, L01 to L0k are added up, the sum obtained being sent to the single block decoder 36 is forwarded, which provides estimates of the constant data c of the transmitted messages and the frame number n0 of the reference data block y0.

In the case of signal modulation such as quadrature phase shift keying (QPSK), the IQ samples obtained can be scaled and stored in the accumulation module 34 can be summed up to get a sum. Then the sum is sent to the single block decoder 36 forwarded.

The performance appraiser 38 also receives the separate data blocks y0 through yk and the estimates for the constant data ĉ and the estimated reference frame number n0 obtained from the single block decoder 36 were issued. The performance appraiser 38 outputs an estimate of the received power.

As in 2 specified, the compensation of the code word differences c1-c0 to ck-c0 could be dependent on the frame number differences n1-n0 to nk-n0 and the reference frame number n0 itself.

Therefore the reference frame number n0 must be taken into account.

This can be done by estimating the reference frame number n0 or by specifying the reference frame number n0 as a priori knowledge.

Alternatively, the reference frame number n0 is determined on the basis of a systematic trial-and-error approach in which all possible values for the reference frame number n0 are attempted to decode the received messages, namely the data blocks y0 to yk.

For example, the 5G-NR communication standard is assigned 10 bits so that the reference frame number n0 can have one of 1024 values that are attempted in a systematic manner.

With the trial-and-error approach, the following substeps can be performed.

If a value for the reference frame number n0 was not found successfully, further data blocks are received and processed. In other words, the decoding sequence is increased to get more data.

If a single value was found for the reference frame number n0, the single value found is forwarded to the next instance. The compensation of the code word differences n1-n0 to nk-n0, as described above, can thus be carried out using the individual value found. Finding a single value could correspond to successful decoding.

In general, successful decoding means that an available parity check (CRC) was successful and the decoded system frame number (SFN) corresponds to the value of the (reference) frame number used in the compensation process.

If more than one value was found for the reference frame number n0, a further decision routine is carried out in order to select a single value to be used for the reference frame number n0, namely for the compensation of the code word differences n1-n0 to nk-n0.

The further decision routine can relate to certain criteria, e.g. where the estimate of the received power is maximized or the use of a sequence decoder.

Furthermore, the computational complexity can be reduced by forming at least one group of system frame numbers, each element of the respective group having the identical code word difference. The respective steps described above for compensating the code word difference therefore only have to be carried out once for each group.

The steps described above are repeated for all SFN groups until decoding by the single block decoder 36 is successful.

Alternatively, those from the sender 12 provided system frame numbers n0 to nk are interpreted as an outer code, the code words c0 to ck being interpreted as an inner code.

The inner code and the outer code are then iteratively decoded, whereby log-likelihood quotients LLRs of decoded versions u0 to uk of the code words c0 to ck are passed between the inner code and the outer code.

This can lead to a reduced processing power since it is not necessary to assume a value for the reference frame number n0 in advance. In fact, it is not necessary to try different values for the reference frame number n0. However, depending on the number of iterations used, this variant can lead to increased computational complexity.

In 3 is a variant of the recipient 14th or the device 26th shown. Indeed the compensation module is 32 in the device 26th not included since it is not necessary to compensate for the code word differences n1-n0 to nk-n0.

The frame numbers assigned to the respective transmissions are interpreted as an outer code, in addition to that from the single block decoder 36 inner code to be decoded is provided.

As mentioned above, it is not necessary to try different values for the reference frame number n0. Furthermore, it is not necessary to estimate or assume the value for the reference frame number n0, since the frame numbers are interpreted as a code that is generated by the device 26th needs to be decoded.

The frame numbers, ie the outer code, and the code words are used by the device 26th decoded together in a suitable manner, ie in an iterative manner.

In general, both represent the device 26th as well as the method described ensures that several transmitted messages can be decoded even under difficult channel conditions, ie with a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) that is below a certain threshold value.

In addition, both the device 26th as well as the method, by combining several data blocks, ensures that broadcast channels can also be decoded if the bandwidth of the recipient is exceeded 14th is smaller than the bandwidth of the broadcast channel.

Does the number of data blocks received correspond to the ratio of the bandwidth of the (broadcast) channel to the bandwidth of the device 26th , namely the recipient, the device can 26th achieve the same SNR threshold for a received block as a receiver without bandwidth limitation.

The device 26th can be checked by the device 26th is connected to a signal generator, for example a known signal generator. In fact, the signal generator can rely on the in 1 shown transmitter 12 Respectively.

The signal generator can generate a first signal with standard-compliant incrementation. For example, a 5G NR signal is generated with the system frame number (SFN) incremented by 1 and going from 0 to 1023.

The threshold value for successful decoding while the first signal is passed on to the device under test 26th . The respective threshold value is referred to as the first threshold value because it is assigned to the first signal.

The signal generator then generates a second signal without standard-compliant incrementation.

Again the threshold value for successful decoding while the second signal is forwarded to the device to be checked 26th . The corresponding threshold value is referred to as the second threshold value because it is assigned to the second signal.

The threshold values, namely the first and second threshold values, are then compared with one another in order to determine which of the threshold values is the lower.

If the first threshold value, namely the threshold value assigned to the signal with standard-compliant incrementation, is (much) lower than the other, this indicates that in the device 26th the procedure described above is used.

Claims (14)

Method for decoding multiple transmissions of time-related data, comprising the following steps: - Receiving and recognizing separate data blocks, each data block having data that comprise at least one code word that is assigned to a system frame number that is dependent on the transmission time of the respective data block, - Demodulating each data block, so that IQ samples, likelihood quotients or their representatives are obtained for each data block, - Accumulating the IQ samples, the likelihood quotients or their representatives to a sum which is forwarded to a single block decoder, and Decoding the sum, thereby obtaining decoding results. Procedure according to Claim 1 , whereby frame number differences of the data blocks are determined on the basis of the knowledge of the frame duration and whereby certain received IQ samples, likelihood quotients or their representatives are modified by using the determined frame number differences, so that respective code word differences of the data blocks are compensated in time, in particular with reception time differences of the Data blocks are determined, the frame number differences are determined on the basis of knowledge of the frame duration and the reception time differences of the data blocks. Procedure according to Claim 2 , wherein the frame number differences and / or the code word differences correspond to differences in relation to a reference data block which comprises a reference code word which is assigned to a reference frame number, in particular wherein the reference data block corresponds to the first received data block within a decoding sequence. Procedure according to Claim 3 , attempting all possible values for the reference frame number based on a systematic trial-and-error approach to decoding. Procedure according to Claim 4 The systematic trial-and-error approach comprises the following steps: if the decoding was not successful for all the reference frame numbers considered, more data blocks are received, - if the decoding was successful for a single reference frame number considered, the decoding result is transferred to the next Instance forwarded, and / or - if the decoding was successful for more than one considered reference frame number, a further decision routine is carried out in order to select an individual decoding result which is to be forwarded to a next instance. Procedure according to Claim 5 wherein the further decision routine comprises the following steps: re-encoding the decoding results of which more than one was found so that re-encoded symbols or IQ samples are obtained, forwarding the re-encoded symbols or IQ samples for all successful decoding results to one Sequence decoder, which outputs a measure for the similarity of the newly encoded symbols or IQ samples with the received likelihood quotients or IQ samples, and - Selecting the individual decoding result based on the output values of the sequence decoder. Procedure according to Claim 5 or 6th , where the frame of reference number is provided as a priori knowledge. Method according to one of the Claims 3 to 7th wherein at least one group of reference frame numbers is formed, each element of the group having the identical codeword difference, and all possible groups being attempted based on a systematic trial and error approach to decoding. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein each data block comprises at least one of a plurality of symbols and additional useful data with the same constant binary data. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the system frame numbers are interpreted as outer code and the code words are interpreted as inner code, in particular wherein the inner code and the outer code are decoded iteratively, whereby log-likelihood quotients of decoded versions of the code words between the inner Code and the outer code are passed. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the separate data blocks are received on different carrier frequencies. Apparatus for decoding multiple transmissions of time-related data, comprising: - at least two reception channels (46), - A demodulation module (30) which is configured in such a way that it demodulates data blocks that are received via the at least two receiving channels (46) so that IQ samples, likelihood quotients or their representatives are obtained, each data block having data comprise at least one code word that is assigned to a system frame number that is dependent on the transmission time of the respective data block, - An accumulation module (34) which is assigned to the demodulation module (30), and - A single block decoder (36) with only one input (44), the single block decoder (36) being connected to the accumulation module (34). Device according to Claim 12 , wherein a compensation module (32) is connected between the demodulation module (30) and the accumulation module (34), the compensation module (32) being configured such that it compensates for the respective code word differences of the data blocks in terms of time by using certain received IQ samples, likelihood -Quotients or their representatives modified. A method of checking an apparatus for decoding multiple transmissions of time-related data, comprising the steps of: - connecting the device to be checked to a signal generator (12), - Generation of a first signal with standard-compliant incrementation, - measuring a first threshold value for successful decoding while the first signal is forwarded to the device under test, - Generation of a second signal without standard-compliant incrementation, - measuring a second threshold value for successful decoding while the second signal is passed on to the device under test, and - comparing the first measured threshold value with the second measured threshold value.

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